FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEBREVARD COLLEGE SPORTS INFORMATIONThursday, October 6, 2011

WALSH NAMED 2012 HEAD COACH OF THE HITOMS

Former CPL All-Star returns to coach in Thomasville

High Point/Thomasville, N.C. – The HiToms have named Brevard College Assistant Coach Sean Walsh as their field manager for the 2012 summer campaign.

Currently serving as the hitting coach for former HiToms Head Coach Matt McCay (Head Coach – 2008 CPL Champions) at Brevard College, Walsh returns home to Finch Field 12 years after a Coastal Plain League All-Star season in 1999 with the HiToms.

"I feel blessed to be returning to the very place that gave me an opportunity to excel in my baseball career," Walsh said. "I aspire to help young players not only learn and grow as baseball players, but as young men as well.

Entering his second season as the Brevard College hitting/infield coach, Walsh launches his CPL coaching career following a one-year stint as the head coach of the Carolina Naturals Showcase squad and a six-year professional baseball career. Drafted out of NC State by the Phillies in 2001, Walsh climbed the Philadelphia organizational chain all the way to Reading, Pa in the Eastern League (Double A). Playing four minor-league seasons with the Phils, Walsh followed his tenure in affiliate baseball on the independent circuit excelling with the Winnipeg Goldeyes and the Fullerton Flyers. Gaining all-star status in both the Northern and Golden Leagues respectively, Walsh posted impressive offensive numbers (.357 – 2nd in the Golden League, 2005) and collected a Gold Glove (Golden League – 2005, 3B) while playing a multitude of positions.

"Although Sean’s coaching career has just started, his playing experience has paved the way for his coaching success," HiToms President Greg Suire said. "Willing his way to virtually every step of the baseball ladder, Walsh succeeded as a player because of his knowledge, leadership, instincts and perseverance. He is a true baseball lifer, and I am thrilled that his journey started and now continues as a HiTom."

"As a coach, I value the character of the players and how they represent themselves both on and off the field," Walsh added. "I believe in the importance of a player's work ethnic and determination. During my baseball career, I was able to learn from some great players and coaches and I am committed to espousing these same ideals."

Walsh becomes the 14th head coach in the HiToms CPL history and takes over the spot vacated by Jeff Steele who piloted the Tommies to a 31-25 record and a Western Division championship.

Walsh becomes the second former HiTom player (Matt McCay, 2008) to be named the Tommies head coach. Ironically, McCay was a teammate of Walsh on the HiToms 1999 inaugural CPL squad.